Insertion tool for implanting a paddle lead and methods and systems utilizing the tool

ABSTRACT

An insertion tool for a paddle lead includes an insertion tool body having a receiving end portion; a stylet channel extending along the insertion tool body; a stylet disposed in the stylet channel; and an actuator assembly disposed along the handling end portion of the insertion tool body and coupled to the stylet. The actuator assembly controls transitioning of the stylet between a first position and a second position. In some instances, the stylet can be a wire stylet that is inserted into a lumen in the paddle body of the paddle lead. In some instances, the stylet of the insertion tool pushes lead bodies of the paddle lead out of the insertion tool to release the paddle lead. In some instances, the insertion tool includes a paddle envelope to hold the paddle lead.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/552,328, filed Nov. 24, 2014, which claims the benefit under 35U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.61/911,737, filed Dec. 4, 2013, both of which are incorporated herein byreference.

FIELD

The present invention is directed to the area of implantable electricalstimulation systems and methods of making and using the systems. Thepresent invention is also directed to an insertion tool suitable forfacilitating implantation of paddle bodies of electrical stimulationleads, as well as methods of making and using the insertion tool, paddlebodies, leads, and electrical stimulation systems.

BACKGROUND

Implantable electrical stimulation systems have proven therapeutic in avariety of diseases and disorders. For example, spinal cord stimulationsystems have been used as a therapeutic modality for the treatment ofchronic pain syndromes. Peripheral nerve stimulation has been used totreat chronic pain syndrome and incontinence, with a number of otherapplications under investigation. Functional electrical stimulationsystems have been applied to restore some functionality to paralyzedextremities in spinal cord injury patients.

Stimulators have been developed to provide therapy for a variety oftreatments. A stimulator can include a control module (with a pulsegenerator), one or more leads, and an array of stimulator electrodes oneach lead. The stimulator electrodes are in contact with or near thenerves, muscles, or other tissue to be stimulated. The pulse generatorin the control module generates electrical pulses that are delivered bythe electrodes to body tissue.

BRIEF SUMMARY

One embodiment is a paddle lead insertion tool including an insertiontool body having a receiving end portion, a handling end portion, anouter surface, and a longitudinal length; a stylet channel extendingalong the longitudinal length of the insertion tool body from thereceiving end portion to the handling end portion; a stylet wire atleast partially disposed in the stylet channel, the stylet wire having afirst end, a second end, and a curved portion between the first andsecond ends, the stylet wire forming a partial loop; and an actuatorassembly disposed along the handling end portion of the insertion toolbody and coupled to the stylet. The actuator assembly includes a firstactuator handle attached to the first end of the stylet wire and asecond actuator handle attached to the second end of the stylet wire.The insertion tool is configured and arranged to transition the styletwire between a retracted position and an extended position using theactuator assembly. When the stylet wire is in the retracted position thecurved portion of the stylet wire is disposed completely within thestylet channel and when the stylet is in the extended position thecurved portion of the stylet extends outwardly from the insertion toolbody and is configured and arranged for insertion into a stylet lumen ofa paddle lead. The first and second actuator handles, in combinationwith the wire stylet, are configured and arranged to facilitate steeringof a paddle lead to the right or left relative to the receiving endportion of the insertion tool body.

Another embodiment is an insertion tool for a paddle lead. The paddlelead includes a paddle body and at least one lead body extending fromthe paddle body. The insertion tool includes an insertion tool bodyhaving a receiving end portion, a handling end portion, an outersurface, and a longitudinal length. The receiving end portion includes adistal end, at least one lead body channel, at least one exit openingterminating the at least one lead body channel, and at least one slitextending from the distal end to a one of the at least one exit opening.Each of the at least one channel is associated with one of the at leastone exit opening and one of the at least one slit with the slitextending from the outer surface of the insertion tool body to the leadbody channel. Each of the at least one lead body channel is configuredand arranged to receive a one of the at least one lead body extendingfrom the paddle body of the paddle lead. The insertion tool alsoincludes a stylet channel extending along the longitudinal length of theinsertion tool body from the receiving end portion to the handling endportion and open to the at least one lead body channel; and a styletdisposed in the stylet channel and having a stylet head disposed in thereceiving end portion of the insertion tool body. The stylet isconfigured and arranged for transitioning between a first position and asecond position. When the stylet transitions from the first to thesecond position, the stylet head pushes any lead body in the at leastone lead body channel of the insertion tool body out of the insertiontool through the at least one slit to release the lead body from theinsertion tool. The insertion tool further includes an actuator assemblydisposed along the handling end portion of the insertion tool body andcoupled to the stylet. The actuator assembly is configured and arrangedto control transitioning of the stylet between the first position andthe second position.

Yet another embodiment is an insertion tool for a paddle lead having apaddle body. The insertion tool includes an insertion tool body having areceiving end portion, a handling end portion, an outer surface, and alongitudinal length; a paddle envelope extending from the receiving endportion and configured and arranged to receive the paddle body of thepaddle lead, to hold the paddle body during implantation, and to releasethe paddle body when directed by a user; a stylet channel extendingalong the longitudinal length of the insertion tool body from thereceiving end portion to the handling end portion; a stylet disposed inthe stylet channel and configured and arranged to operate the paddleenvelope to hold or release the paddle body; and an actuator assemblydisposed along the handling end portion of the insertion tool body andcoupled to the stylet. The actuator assembly is configured and arrangedto control transitioning of the stylet between a first position and asecond position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments of the present invention aredescribed with reference to the following drawings. In the drawings,like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the variousfigures unless otherwise specified.

For a better understanding of the present invention, reference will bemade to the following Detailed Description, which is to be read inassociation with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of one embodiment of an electricalstimulation system that includes a lead electrically coupled to acontrol module, according to the invention;

FIG. 2A is a schematic side view of one embodiment of the control moduleof FIG. 1 configured and arranged to electrically couple to an elongateddevice, according to the invention;

FIG. 2B is a schematic side view of one embodiment of a lead extensionconfigured and arranged to electrically couple the elongated device ofFIG. 2A to the control module of FIG. 1, according to the invention;

FIG. 3A is a schematic perspective view of one embodiment of aninsertion tool for guiding a paddle lead to a target implantation sitewithin a patient, according to the invention;

FIG. 3B is a schematic top view of one embodiment of the insertion toolof FIG. 3A, according to the invention;

FIG. 4A is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of oneembodiment of a stylet disposed in the insertion tool of FIG. 3A, wherethe stylet is in a retracted position, according to the invention;

FIG. 4B is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of oneembodiment of a stylet disposed in the insertion tool of FIG. 3A, wherethe stylet is in an extended position with the stylet extendingoutwardly from a receiving end portion of the insertion tool, accordingto the invention;

FIG. 5A is a schematic top view of one embodiment of a portion of apaddle lead and a portion of the insertion tool of FIG. 3A with a styletlumen disposed in a paddle body of the paddle lead, according to theinvention;

FIG. 5B is a schematic top view of one embodiment of the portion of thepaddle lead and the portion of the insertion tool of FIG. 5A with thestylet of the insertion tool inserted into the stylet lumen of thepaddle body, according to the invention;

FIG. 5C is a schematic top view of one embodiment of the portion of thepaddle lead and the portion of the insertion tool of FIG. 5B with thestylet of the insertion tool being used to steer the paddle body to theright, according to the invention;

FIG. 5D is a schematic top view of another embodiment of a portion of apaddle lead and a portion of an insertion tool where the stylet includesa rotational wire, according to the invention;

FIG. 6A is a schematic perspective view of another embodiment of aninsertion tool for guiding a paddle lead to a target implantation sitewithin a patient, according to the invention;

FIG. 6B is a schematic perspective view of the receiving end portion ofthe insertion tool of FIG. 6A, according to the invention;

FIG. 6C is a schematic end view of the receiving end portion of theinsertion tool of FIG. 6A, according to the invention;

FIG. 6D is a schematic top view of the receiving end portion of theinsertion tool of FIG. 6A and a paddle lead in an implantation position,according to the invention;

FIG. 6E is a schematic top view of the receiving end portion of theinsertion tool of FIG. 6A and a paddle lead in a position with thepaddle lead released from the insertion tool, according to theinvention;

FIG. 7A is a schematic side view of one embodiment of a receiving endportion of an insertion tool with a paddle envelope, according to theinvention;

FIG. 7B is a schematic side view of the receiving end portion of FIG. 7Awith a paddle lead disposed therein, according to the invention;

FIG. 7C is a schematic end view of one embodiment of a paddle envelopewith a paddle lead, according to the invention;

FIG. 7D is a schematic end view of another embodiment of a paddleenvelope with a paddle lead, according to the invention;

FIG. 7E is a schematic end view of a third embodiment of a paddleenvelope with a paddle lead, according to the invention;

FIG. 8 is a schematic side view of a second embodiment of a receivingend portion of an insertion tool with a paddle envelope, according tothe invention;

FIG. 9A is a schematic side view of a third embodiment of a receivingend portion of an insertion tool with a paddle envelope, according tothe invention;

FIG. 9B is a schematic side view of the receiving end portion of FIG. 9Awith a paddle lead disposed therein, according to the invention;

FIG. 10A is a schematic side view of a fourth embodiment of a receivingend portion of an insertion tool with a paddle envelope in an openposition, according to the invention;

FIG. 10B is a schematic side view of the receiving end portion of FIG.10A in a closed position, according to the invention;

FIG. 11A is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of oneembodiment of a stylet disposed in an insertion tool with a styletholding mechanism where the stylet is in an extended position, accordingto the invention;

FIG. 11B is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of oneembodiment of a stylet disposed in the insertion tool of FIG. 11A withthe stylet is in a retracted position, according to the invention; and

FIG. 12 is a schematic overview of one embodiment of components of astimulation system, including an electronic subassembly disposed withina control module, according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention is directed to the area of implantable electricalstimulation systems and methods of making and using the systems. Thepresent invention is also directed to an insertion tool suitable forfacilitating implantation of paddle bodies of electrical stimulationleads, as well as methods of making and using the insertion tool, paddlebodies, leads, and electrical stimulation systems.

Suitable implantable electrical stimulation systems include, but are notlimited to, at least one lead with one or more electrodes disposed alonga distal end of the lead and one or more terminals disposed along theone or more proximal ends of the lead. Leads include, for example,percutaneous leads, paddle leads, and cuff leads. Examples of electricalstimulation systems with leads are found in, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos.6,181,969; 6,516,227; 6,609,029; 6,609,032; 6,741,892; 7,949,395;7,244,150; 7,672,734; and U.S. Pat. No. 7,761,165; and U.S. PatentApplications Publication Nos. 2005/0165465, 2007/0150036; 2007/0219595;2007/0239243; and 2008/0071320, all of which are incorporated byreference.

FIG. 1 illustrates schematically one embodiment of an electricalstimulation system 100. The electrical stimulation system includes acontrol module (e.g., a stimulator or pulse generator) 102 and a lead103 coupleable to the control module 102. The lead 103 includes a paddlebody 104 and one or more lead bodies 106. In FIG. 1, the lead 103 isshown having two lead bodies 106. It will be understood that the lead103 can include any suitable number of lead bodies including, forexample, one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight or more leadbodies 106. An array of electrodes 133, such as electrode 134, isdisposed on the paddle body 104, and an array of terminals (e.g., 210 inFIG. 2A-2B) is disposed along each of the one or more lead bodies 106.

The lead 103 can be coupled to the control module 102 in any suitablemanner. In FIG. 1, the lead 103 is shown coupling directly to thecontrol module 102. In at least some other embodiments, the lead 103couples to the control module 102 via one or more intermediate devices.For example, in at least some embodiments one or more lead extensions224 (see e.g., FIG. 2B) can be disposed between the lead 103 and thecontrol module 102 to extend the distance between the lead 103 and thecontrol module 102. Other intermediate devices may be used in additionto, or in lieu of, one or more lead extensions including, for example, asplitter, an adaptor, or the like or combinations thereof. It will beunderstood that, in the case where the electrical stimulation system 100includes multiple elongated devices disposed between the lead 103 andthe control module 102, the intermediate devices may be configured intoany suitable arrangement.

The control module 102 typically includes a connector housing 112 and asealed electronics housing 114. An electronic subassembly 110 and anoptional power source 120 are disposed in the electronics housing 114. Acontrol module connector 144 is disposed in the connector housing 112.The control module connector 144 is configured and arranged to make anelectrical connection between the lead 103 and the electronicsubassembly 110 of the control module 102.

The electrical stimulation system or components of the electricalstimulation system, including the paddle body 104, the one or more ofthe lead bodies 106, and the control module 102, are typically implantedinto the body of a patient. The electrical stimulation system can beused for a variety of applications including, but not limited to neuralstimulation, spinal cord stimulation, muscle stimulation, and the like.

The electrodes 134 can be formed using any conductive, biocompatiblematerial. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys,conductive polymers, conductive carbon, and the like, as well ascombinations thereof. In at least some embodiments, one or more of theelectrodes 134 are formed from one or more of: platinum, platinumiridium, palladium, palladium rhodium, or titanium.

Any suitable number of electrodes 134 can be disposed on the paddle bodyincluding, for example, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten,eleven, twelve, fourteen, sixteen, twenty-four, thirty-two, or moreelectrodes 134. The electrodes 134 can be disposed on the paddle body104 in any suitable arrangement. In FIG. 1, the electrodes 134 arearranged into two columns, where each column has eight electrodes 134.

The electrodes of the paddle body 104 are typically disposed in, orseparated by, a non-conductive, biocompatible material such as, forexample, silicone, polyurethane, polyetheretherketone (“PEEK”), epoxy,and the like or combinations thereof. The paddle body 104 and the one ormore lead bodies 106 may be formed in the desired shape by any processincluding, for example, molding (including injection molding), casting,and the like. The non-conductive material typically extends from thepaddle body 104 to the proximal end of each of the one or more leadbodies 106. The non-conductive, biocompatible material of the paddlebody 104 and the one or more lead bodies 106 may be the same ordifferent. The paddle body 104 and the one or more lead bodies 106 maybe a unitary structure or can be formed as two separate structures thatare permanently or detachably coupled together.

Terminals (e.g., 210 in FIGS. 2A-2B) are typically disposed along theproximal end of the one or more lead bodies 106 of the electricalstimulation system 100 (as well as any splitters, lead extensions,adaptors, or the like) for electrical connection to correspondingconnector contacts (e.g., 214 in FIGS. 2A-2B). The connector contactsare disposed in connectors (e.g., 144 in FIGS. 1-2B; and 222 FIG. 2B)which, in turn, are disposed on, for example, the control module 102 (ora lead extension, a splitter, an adaptor, or the like). Conductor wires(not shown) extend from the terminals to the electrodes 134. Typically,one or more electrodes 134 are electrically coupled to each terminal. Inat least some embodiments, each terminal is only connected to oneelectrode 134.

The conductor wires (“conductors”) may be embedded in the non-conductivematerial of the lead body 106 or can be disposed in one or more lumens(not shown) extending along the lead body 106. In some embodiments,there is an individual lumen for each conductor. In other embodiments,two or more conductors may extend through a lumen. There may also be oneor more lumens (not shown) that open at, or near, the proximal end ofthe one or more lead bodies 106, for example, for inserting a stylet tofacilitate placement of the one or more lead bodies 106 within a body ofa patient. Additionally, there may also be one or more lumens (notshown) that open at, or near, the distal end of the one or more leadbodies 106, for example, for infusion of drugs or medication into thesite of implantation of the one or more lead bodies 106. In at least oneembodiment, the one or more lumens may be flushed continually, or on aregular basis, with saline, epidural fluid, or the like. In at leastsome embodiments, the one or more lumens can be permanently or removablysealable at the distal end.

FIG. 2A is a schematic side view of one embodiment of a proximal end ofone or more elongated devices 200 configured and arranged for couplingto one embodiment of the control module connector 144. The one or moreelongated devices may include, for example, one or more of the leadbodies 106 of FIG. 1, one or more intermediate devices (e.g., asplitter, the lead extension 224 of FIG. 2B, an adaptor, or the like orcombinations thereof), or a combination thereof.

The control module connector 144 defines at least one port into which aproximal end of the elongated device 200 can be inserted, as shown bydirectional arrows 212 a and 212 b. In FIG. 2A (and in other figures),the connector housing 112 is shown having two ports 204 a and 204 b. Theconnector housing 112 can define any suitable number of ports including,for example, one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or moreports.

The control module connector 144 also includes a plurality of connectorcontacts, such as connector contact 214, disposed within each port 204 aand 204 b. When the elongated device 200 is inserted into the ports 204a and 204 b, the connector contacts 214 can be aligned with a pluralityof terminals 210 disposed along the proximal end(s) of the elongateddevice(s) 200 to electrically couple the control module 102 to theelectrodes (134 of FIG. 1) disposed on the paddle body 104 of the lead103. Examples of connectors in control modules are found in, forexample, U.S. Pat. No. 7,244,150 and U.S. patent application Ser. No.11/532,844, which are incorporated by reference.

FIG. 2B is a schematic side view of another embodiment of the electricalstimulation system 100. The electrical stimulation system 100 includes alead extension 224 that is configured and arranged to couple one or moreelongated devices 200 (e.g., one of the lead bodies 106 of FIG. 1, asplitter, an adaptor, another lead extension, or the like orcombinations thereof) to the control module 102. In FIG. 2B, the leadextension 224 is shown coupled to a single port 204 defined in thecontrol module connector 144. Additionally, the lead extension 224 isshown configured and arranged to couple to a single elongated device200. In alternate embodiments, the lead extension 224 is configured andarranged to couple to multiple ports 204 defined in the control moduleconnector 144 (e.g., the ports 204 a and 204 b of FIG. 1), or to receivemultiple elongated devices 200 (e.g., both of the lead bodies 106 ofFIG. 1), or both.

A lead extension connector 222 is disposed on the lead extension 224. InFIG. 2B, the lead extension connector 222 is shown disposed at a distalend 226 of the lead extension 224. The lead extension connector 222includes a connector housing 228. The connector housing 228 defines atleast one port 230 into which terminals 210 of the elongated device 200can be inserted, as shown by directional arrow 238. The connectorhousing 228 also includes a plurality of connector contacts, such asconnector contact 240. When the elongated device 200 is inserted intothe port 230, the connector contacts 240 disposed in the connectorhousing 228 can be aligned with the terminals 210 of the elongateddevice 200 to electrically couple the lead extension 224 to theelectrodes (134 of FIG. 1) disposed along the lead (103 in FIG. 1).

In at least some embodiments, the proximal end of the lead extension 224is similarly configured and arranged as a proximal end of the lead 103(or other elongated device 200). The lead extension 224 may include aplurality of conductive wires (not shown) that electrically couple theconnector contacts 240 to a proximal end 248 of the lead extension 224that is opposite to the distal end 226. In at least some embodiments,the conductive wires disposed in the lead extension 224 can beelectrically coupled to a plurality of terminals (not shown) disposedalong the proximal end 248 of the lead extension 224. In at least someembodiments, the proximal end 248 of the lead extension 224 isconfigured and arranged for insertion into a connector disposed inanother lead extension (or another intermediate device). In otherembodiments (and as shown in FIG. 2B), the proximal end 248 of the leadextension 224 is configured and arranged for insertion into the controlmodule connector 144.

In at least some embodiments an insertion tool can be used to facilitateimplantation of a paddle body at a target implantation site within apatient. Advancing the paddle body to the target stimulation locationmay involve passing one or more obstructions and, in the case of spinalcord stimulation, centering the paddle body along the center line of thespinal cord. As herein described, insertion tools are described thatfacilitate insertion of a paddle lead into a patient. U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 61/738,624 describes other examples ofpaddle lead insertion tools and is incorporated herein by reference.

The insertion tools described herein couple to the paddle body of thepaddle lead. In at least some embodiments, the insertion tools includeone or more stylets for assisting in delivery and implantation of thepaddle lead.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate one embodiment of an insertion tool 302 forguiding a paddle lead (see e.g., paddle lead 502 of FIG. 5A) into atarget stimulation location within a patient. The insertion tool 302includes an insertion tool body 304 having a receiving end portion 308and a handling end portion 310. The insertion tool body 304 has alongitudinal length 312, a width 314, and an outer surface 316.

The insertion tool body 304 may have any suitable cross-sectionincluding, for example, a rectangular, round, or oval-shapedcross-section. In at least some embodiments, the cross-sectional shapeof the insertion tool body 304 may change along the longitudinal lengthof the insertion tool body 304. In at least some embodiments, the width314 is constant along the longitudinal length 312 of the insertion toolbody 304. In at least some other embodiments, the width 314 varies alongthe longitudinal length 312 of the insertion tool body 304. In at leastsome embodiments, the handling end portion 310 of the insertion leadbody 304 is wider than the receiving end portion 308 of the insertiontool body 304. For example, in at least some embodiments, the width 314of the insertion tool body 304 tapers. It may be advantageous to designthe insertion tool body 304 such that the handling end portion 310 iswider than the receiving end portion 308 because a larger handling endportion 310 may facilitate gripping of the insertion tool 302 by anoperator, while a smaller receiving end portion 308 may facilitateinsertion of the insertion tool 302 into the patient's body.

In at least some embodiments, the insertion tool body may bemanufactured as an integrated structure (e.g., formed as a one-piecestructure). In other embodiments, the insertion tool body 304 may beformed from multiple pieces that are coupled together during manufactureor by the user or any combination thereof. For example, insertion toolor the handling portion 310 of the insertion tool may be formed from twohalves that are coupled together. In some embodiments, the receiving endportion 308 is made of a material such as silicone and has an end thatis shaped (for example, shaped like an accordion) to fit into an end ofthe handling portion 310 during assembly of the insertion tool.

The insertion tool body 304 may include at least one curve along thelongitudinal length 312 of the insertion tool body 304. In FIG. 3A, theinsertion tool body 304 is shown having a first curve 318 and a secondcurve 320. It will be understood that insertion tool body 304 mayinclude additional curves. The curve(s) may vary in number, size, orform. In FIG. 3A, the first curve 318 is shown positioned along thereceiving end portion 308, while the second curve 320 may be positionedalong the handling end portion 310. In at least some embodiment, thefirst curve 318 and the second curve 320 are oriented oppositely fromone another such that the insertion tool body 304 forms an S-shapedconfiguration along the longitudinal length 312.

It may be advantageous to form the insertion tool body 304 into theS-shaped configuration for facilitating passing one or more anatomicalstructures (e.g., the inferior spinous process) while also allowing fora substantial angular entry into the target stimulation location, forexample the epidural space, during insertion of the paddle lead.Moreover, the handling end portion 310 forming one part of the S-shapedconfiguration to enable a user's hand to be held away from an insertionsite during an implantation procedure.

Optionally, the handling end portion 310 may include an insertion toolhandle 322, dimensioned and sized to fit ergonomically within the handsof a user of the insertion tool 302. The insertion tool handle 322 mayinclude recessed sections to comfortably accommodate a user's fingersand the thumb during applications. In some embodiments, cut outs may beprovided on the insertion tool handle 322 for comfortable fingerplacement. In addition, a cross-sectional profile of the handling endportion 310 may be substantially rectangular with smoothed edges at thecorners, making the insertion tool body 304 ergonomic and comfortable tostore, hold, and operate. In at least some embodiments, the insertiontool handle 322 is integral with the insertion tool 302. In otherembodiments, the insertion tool handle 322 is a separate structure fordisposing on the insertion tool 302 by the user prior to (or during) useof the insertion tool 302.

The insertion tool 302 defines a stylet channel 324 (FIG. 3B) extendingalong the longitudinal length 312 of the insertion tool body 304. Thestylet channel 324 receives one or more stylets 330. The stylet channel324 may extend from the handling end portion 310 all the way to thereceiving end portion 308. The stylet channel 324 may have any suitablecross-sectional profile including, for example, rectangular, round,oval-shaped, cruciform, star-shaped, or the like. In at least someembodiments, the cross-sectional profile of the stylet channel 324varies along the length of the stylet channel 324.

A stylet wire 330 extends from a first actuator handle 344 a, loopsaround at a distal end portion 332, and extends back to a secondactuator handle 344 b. In at least some embodiments, the stylet wire 330can be viewed as forming a 180 degree loop. The stylet wire 330 isdisposed within the stylet channel 324 with the distal end portion 332disposed along the receiving end portion 308 of the insertion tool body304.

Structurally, the stylet wire 330 is an elongate, flexible wire withenough rigidity to guide a paddle lead. The stylet wire 330 can beformed from any suitable materials, such as, for example, nitinol (anickel titanium alloy with shape memory and superelasticcharacteristics), stainless steel, or the like. In at least someembodiments, the stylet wire is radiopaque (e.g., nitinol) so that thewire can be viewed fluoroscopically.

The stylet wire 330 remains at least partially disposed within thestylet channel 324 and slides along the stylet channel 324 relative tothe insertion tool body 304. In some embodiments, the stylet wire 330 ispermanently fixed to the insertion tool 302. In other embodiments, thestylet wire 330 is removable from the insertion tool 302.

The insertion tool 302 includes an actuator assembly 340 for controllingmovement of the stylet wire 330 along the stylet channel 324 relative tothe insertion tool body 304 along the longitudinal length 312 of theinsertion tool body 304. For example, the actuator assembly 340 controlsmovement of the stylet wire 330 relative to the insertion tool body 304when transitioning of the stylet wire 330 between retracted and extendedpositions.

The actuator assembly 340 can include an opening or slot defined alongthe outer surface 316 of the insertion tool body 304, referred to as anactuator slit 342. Two actuator handles 344 a, 344 b are disposed overthe actuator slit 342 and slide along the actuator slit 342. In someembodiments, the insertion tool includes a separate actuator slit foreach actuator handle 344 a, 344 b. Each of the actuator handles 344 a,344 b is attached to a different end of the stylet wire 330. Theactuator handles 344 a, 344 b can be operated independently of eachother or operated together and can be used, when operated independently,to steer the paddle lead to the right or left of the receiving endportion 308 of the insertion tool 302 as described below.

FIGS. 4A-4B show one embodiment of movement of the stylet wire 330within the insertion tool 302. FIG. 4A is a side view of one embodimentof the insertion tool 302 with the stylet wire 330 in a retractedposition. FIG. 4B is a side view of the insertion tool 302 with thestylet wire 330 in an extended position. In FIG. 4A, the movement of thestylet wire 330 with respect to the insertion tool 302 from a retractedposition to an extended position is shown by arrows 402 and 404. Asshown in FIG. 4B, when the actuator handle 344 a, 344 b is moved in thedirection of the arrow 412, the distal end portion 332 of the styletwire 330 retracts in the direction of the arrow 414. In at least someembodiments, extension and retraction limits of the stylet wire 330 maybe realized through the length of the actuator slit 342.

The placement of a medical device, such as a paddle lead, during animplantation procedure includes advancing the paddle lead to thepatient's epidural space. FIGS. 5A-5D illustrate the use of theinsertion tool 302 to implant a paddle lead. FIGS. 5A-5D illustrate apaddle lead 502 accompanied by a portion of the receiving end portion308, stylet channel 324, stylet wire 330, and actuator handles 344 a,344 b of the insertion tool 302. The paddle lead 502 includes a paddlebody 504, and first and second lead bodies 506 a and 506 b,respectively, coupled to the paddle body 504. Electrodes 508 are showndisposed along a major surface of the paddle body 504. The paddle lead502 may include any suitable number of lead bodies and any suitablenumber of electrodes 508. A stylet lumen 510 is defined within thepaddle body 504 along its longitudinal axis. The stylet lumen 510receives the distal end portion 332 of the stylet wire 330.

In FIGS. 5A-5D, the electrodes 508 are shown disposed into two columns,both having equal number of electrodes 508, such that the stylet lumen510 occupies a space between the two columns of the electrodes 508. Inat least some embodiments, the stylet lumen 510 extends parallel withthe columns of electrodes 508. In at least some embodiments, the styletlumen 510 is disposed between adjacent columns of electrodes 508. In atleast some embodiments, the stylet lumen 510 is defined along the paddlebody 504 such that an equal number of columns of electrodes 508 aredisposed on each side of the stylet lumen 510. Such an arrangement ofthe stylet lumen 510 within the paddle body 504 may allow the insertiontool 302 to impart a considerably balanced and enhanced maneuveringability to position the lead effectively during operations.

FIG. 5A illustrates the insertion tool 302 disposed in proximity to thepaddle lead 502 with the stylet wire 330 in the retracted position. Asshown by arrow 520, a user can position the insertion tool 302 outsidean opening of the stylet lumen 510 and insert a portion of the styletwire 330 of the insertion tool 302 into the stylet lumen 510 of thepaddle body 504. In at least some embodiments, the insertion tool canabut the paddle body 504. FIG. 5B shows the insertion tool 302 abuttingthe paddle body 504 and the stylet wire 330 in an extended position withthe stylet wire 330 extended into the stylet lumen 510.

Once the stylet wire 330 is inserted into the paddle lead 502, a usermay use the insertion tool 302 to guide, steer, and position, the paddlelead 502 at a target stimulation location within a patient. Once thepaddle body 504 of the paddle lead 502 is positioned, the stylet wire330 may be removed from the paddle body 504. In at least someembodiments, the stylet wire 330 is removed from the paddle body 504without moving the paddle body 504. In which case, removal of theinsertion tool 302 can be performed without disrupting the placement ofthe paddle body 504.

FIG. 5C illustrates steering of the paddle lead 502 using the styletwire 330 and the actuator handles 344 a, 344 b. In the illustration, thesecond actuator handle 344 b is pulled back relative to the firstactuator handle 344 a. This cases the stylet wire 330 to pull the paddlelead 502 to the right. The opposite relative arrangement of handles 344a, 344 b can be used to pull the paddle lead 502 to the left. The wirestylet 330 is selected of a material and size that it is sufficientlyflexible to bend in response to the actuator handles 344 a, 344 b, butalso sufficiently stiff to cause the paddle lead to move to the right orleft.

FIG. 5D illustrates another embodiment of the insertion tool 302 whichincorporates a rotational wire 331 that is attached (e.g., welded,soldered, or the like) to the stylet wire 330 and to a third actuatorhandle 344 c. The rotational wire 331 can be used to rotate the paddlelead clockwise or counterclockwise relative to the rotational wire 331.This adds a further degree of freedom in positioning the lead body. Theactuator handle 344 c may be a sliding button or a rotating wheel or anyother suitable mechanism to generate rotation of the rotational wire331.

FIGS. 6A-6E illustrate another insertion tool 602 for implantation of apaddle lead 502 (see, FIGS. 6D and 6E) with electrodes 508 on a paddlebody 504 and one or more lead bodies 506 a, 506 b attached to the paddlebody. Similar to the insertion tool 302 of FIGS. 3A-4B, insertion tool602 includes an insertion tool body 604, a receiving end portion 608, ahandling end portion 620, an outer surface 616, one or more curves 618,620, an insertion tool handle 622, a stylet channel 624, an actuatorassembly 640, an actuator slit 642, and an actuator handle 644. Unlessotherwise indicated the properties, materials, and manufacture ofinsertion tool 602 and its parts are the same as those for insertiontool 302 and its parts.

The configuration of the receiving end portion 608, as illustrated inmore detail in FIGS. 6B and 6C, is different from the previousembodiment. The receiving end portion 608 includes a stylet channel 624and one or more lead body channels 650 that are adjacent and preferablyopen to the stylet channel 624. The lead body channels 650 terminate inexit openings 652 spaced away from the distal end of the receiving endportion 608. As illustrated in FIG. 6D, the lead bodies 506 a, 506 b ofthe paddle lead 502 are each inserted into one of the lead body channels650 and a portion of the lead body extends out of the corresponding exitopening 652. In addition, for each lead body channel 650 there is anexit slit 654 running from the distal end of the receiving end portion608 to the corresponding exit opening 652. Each exit slit 654 extendsfrom the outer surface 616 of the insertion tool 602 to thecorresponding lead body channel 650. The exit slit 654 typically remainsclosed and is resistant to release of the lead body 506 a, 506 b fromthe lead body channel 650, but when sufficient lateral force is appliedfrom the stylet, as described below, the lead body 560 a, 560 b can bepushed out of the lead body channel 650 through the exit slit 654 andout of the insertion tool 602 entirely.

The insertion tool 602 includes a stylet 630. The illustrated embodimentof the stylet 630 includes a head 631 attached to a shaft 632. It willbe understood, however, that alternative embodiments of the stylet 630can include a longer head 631 or even a head that extends along theentire length of the stylet so that there is no shaft.

The head 631 of the stylet 630 is wider than the separation distancebetween the lead body channels 650 and is preferably nearly as wide asthe receiving end portion 608 at its distal end. The head 631 may have atapered or arrow-like shape, as illustrated in FIG. 6D, to facilitatepushing the lead bodies 506 a, 506 b out of the lead body channels 650with little or no damage to the lead bodies 506 a, 506 b.

FIGS. 6D and 6E illustrate the receiving end portion 608 of theinsertion tool 602 and a paddle lead 502 at two different stages of theimplantation of the paddle lead. FIG. 6D illustrates the arrangementduring the insertion of the paddle lead into patient tissue and steeringof the paddle lead to the target implantation site. In the arrangementof FIG. 6D, the lead bodies 506 a, 506 b are inserted into correspondinglead body channels 650 so that the paddle lead 502 is held by thereceiving end portion 608 of the insertion tool 602. In this position,the insertion tool 602 can be used to guide the paddle lead 502 to thetarget implantation site. The lead bodies 506 a, 506 b exit thereceiving end portion 608 through the exit openings 652. The stylet 630is in a first position which, in the illustrated embodiment, is aretracted position relative to the lead bodies 506 a, 506 b.

FIG. 6E illustrates the arrangement after location of the paddle lead atthe target implantation site and the disengagement of the insertion tool602 from the paddle lead 502. The stylet 630 has been advanced to asecond portion which, in the illustrated embodiment, is an extendedposition relative to the lead bodies 506 a, 506 b. During the transitionfrom the first position to the second position, the head 631 of thestylet 630 pushes the lead bodies 506 a, 506 b out of the lead bodychannels 650 through the exit slits 654 (see, FIGS. 6B and 6C) and outof the insertion tool 602. The insertion tool 602 can then be removedleaving the paddle lead 502 implanted at the target implantationlocation.

In some embodiments, the head 631 pushes the entire lead bodies 506 a,506 b out of the insertion tool 602. In other embodiments, a smallportion of the lead bodies 506 a, 506 b may remain in the insertion tool602, but these small portions are preferably easily removed as theinsertion tool 602 is withdrawn so that the position of the paddle lead502 in the patient is not disturbed. In some embodiments, the head 631of the stylet 630 remains within the receiving end portion 608 when inthe first and second positions, as illustrated in FIGS. 6D and 6E. Inother embodiments, the head 631 of the stylet 630 (or a portion of thehead) may exit the receiving end portion 608 during the implantationprocess.

In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the head of the stylet isreversed with the point of the head directed back toward the handle ofthe insertion tool. In these embodiments, the first position is extended(similar to FIG. 6E) with the lead bodies disposed in the lead bodychannel behind the head of the stylet. The stylet can then be retractedto the second position (similar to FIG. 6D) pushing the lead bodies outof the lead body channels to release the lead bodies from the insertiontool.

Other embodiments of an insertion tool use a paddle envelope to hold thepaddle lead during implantation and then release the paddle lead afterit has been delivered to the desired implantation site. The paddleenvelope extends from the receiving end portion and may be coupled to astylet or responsive to the operation of a stylet. The insertion toolsdescribed with respect to FIGS. 7A-10B are similar to insertion tools302 and 602 except that the insertion tool end portion has a paddleenvelope. All other design considerations, materials, and manufacturingmethods of the previously described insertion tools are applicable tothose described with respect to FIGS. 7A-10B.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate one example of a paddle envelope 770 of aninsertion tool 702. The paddle envelope 770 extends from the receivingend portion 708 of the insertion tool 702 and contains two or moreenvelope elements 772 a, 772 b. The paddle envelope 770 is coupled to astylet 730 that can be used to extend or retract the paddle envelope.The paddle envelope 770 can be retracted into the receiving end portion708 or over the receiving end portion. The paddle envelope 770 isextended to engage the paddle body 504 of the paddle lead 502 with oneor more lead bodies 506 extending to either side of the receiving endportion 708 of the insertion tool 702, as illustrated in FIG. 7B. Thepaddle envelope 770 can be retracted to release the paddle lead 502 whenit has been delivered to the target implantation site.

The two envelope elements 772 a, 772 b are preferably made of a materialthat is sufficiently flexible so as to reduce or avoid damage to patienttissue or the paddle body 504 or electrodes 508 on the paddle body. Theenvelope elements 772 a, 772 b are also preferably sufficiently rigid tohold the paddle body 504 during implantation. The envelope elements canbe made of any suitable, biocompatible material including, but notlimited to, silicone, polyurethane, and the like.

In some embodiments, the envelope elements are made of alternating(either laterally or longitudinally) regions of polymeric material (suchas silicone) with different durometers. The lower durometer material canprovide flexibility and the higher durometer material can providerigidity. In other embodiments, a wire (e.g., a nitinol wire) or otherrigid element may be encased (e.g., overmolded by polymer material orcovered by heat shrink material) by a pliable material to form theenvelope elements 772 a, 772 b. In some embodiments, a compressive forceto hold the paddle body 504 during implantation may be obtained byarranging the envelope elements 772 a, 772 b so that in their free statethe one or both elements are angled toward the other.

FIGS. 7C-7E illustrate three different paddle envelope embodiments 770,770′, 770″ with different sites of engagement of the paddle lead 502.The embodiment of FIG. 7C has two envelope elements 772 a, 772 b thatengage the top and bottom surfaces of the paddle body 504. Theembodiment of FIG. 7D has two envelope elements 772 a′, 772 b′ thatengage the side surfaces of the paddle body 504 and may extend partiallyto the top surface or bottom surface or both. The embodiment of FIG. 7Ehas a single envelope elements 772″ that engages the bottom surface (oralternatively, the top surface) of the paddle body 504. This singleenvelope element 772″ may grip the paddle body 504 to maintain contactduring implantation of the paddle lead, but such a grip is releasableupon retraction of the envelope element 772″ using the stylet 730 (see,FIG. 7A). Alternatively, the envelope element 772″ may be primarily aplatform upon which the paddle body 504 is rests during implantation.

FIG. 8 illustrates another embodiment of an insertion tool 802 with apaddle envelope 870 extending from the receiving end portion 808 of theinsertion tool. This paddle envelope 870 has a stationary envelopeelement 872 a (which is optionally integrally formed with the receivingend portion 808) that is attached to the receiving end portion 808 andremains stationary relative to the receiving end portion. The paddleenvelope also includes a retractable envelope element 872 b. Theillustrated embodiment shows the retractable element 872 b with a bend874 so that in its free state it will be angled toward the stationaryenvelope element 872 a, but such a bend is optional (i.e., theretractable element 872 b can be straight) or the stationary envelopeelement 872 a can be bent. Unless otherwise indicated, a bend in one ormore envelope elements can be incorporated in any of the otherembodiments illustrated in FIGS. 7A-10B.

The retractable envelope element 872 b can be extended to hold a paddlebody between the envelope elements 872 a, 872 b. The retractableenvelope element 872 b can be retracted using the stylet 830 to releasethe paddle body at the target implantation site.

FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate another embodiment of an insertion tool 902with a paddle envelope 970 extending from the receiving end portion 908of the insertion tool. This paddle envelope 970 has a stationaryenvelope element 972 a and a movable envelope element 972 b. Themovement of envelope element 972 b is lateral with respect to the majorsurfaces of the paddle lead include the major surface with theelectrodes disposed thereon. In addition, the insertion tool 902includes a stylet 930 with a head 931 attached to the stylet. In theopen position of FIG. 9A, the stylet 930 and stylet head 931 areretracted and the envelope elements 972 a, 972 b are separated to allowinsertion of a paddle body 504 of a paddle lead 502 between the envelopeelements. In the closed position of FIG. 9B, the stylet 930 is advancedso that the head 931 causes the movable envelope element 972 b to engagethe paddle body 504 and hold the paddle body 504 between the envelopeelements 972 a, 972 b during the implantation procedure. Once implanted,the stylet 930 can be retracted to allow the movable envelope element972 b to move away from stationary envelope element 972 a (see, e.g.,FIG. 9A) and release the paddle body 504.

FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate another embodiment of an insertion tool1002 with a paddle envelope 1070 extending from the receiving endportion 1008 of the insertion tool. This paddle envelope 1070 has twoenvelope elements 1072 a, 1072 b. In addition, the insertion tool 1002includes a stylet 1030 with a head 1031 attached to the stylet. Each ofthe envelope element 1072 a, 1072 b has a bent or curved region 1076 a,1076 b that, at least in the closed position of FIG. 10B, fits aroundthe head 1031 of the stylet 1030. In the open position of FIG. 10A, thestylet 1030 is retracted and the envelope elements 1072 a, 1072 b areseparated by the head 1031 of the stylet 1030 to allow insertion of apaddle body of a paddle lead between the envelope elements. In theclosed position of FIG. 10B, the stylet 1030 is advanced so that thehead 1031 is within the regions 1076 a, 1076 b with the two envelopeelement 1072 a, 1072 b drawn together (using a spring or any othermechanism) to engage the paddle body and hold the paddle body betweenthe envelope elements 1072 a, 1072 b during the implantation procedure.Once implanted, the stylet 1030 can be retracted to allow the envelopeelements 1072 a, 1072 b to move away from each other (see, e.g., FIG.10A) and release the paddle body.

In alternative embodiments to that of FIGS. 10A and 10B, only one of theenvelope elements has a bent or curved region and is moved by thestylet. The other envelope element remains stationary, similar to theembodiment of FIGS. 9A and 9B.

FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrate an alternative stylet retraction mechanismthat can be incorporated in any of the embodiments described herein(particularly, the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 6A-10B) or in any ofthe insertion tools described in U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationSer. No. 61/738,624. An insertion tool 1102 has a receiving end portion1108, a stylet 1130, and a stylet end portion 1132. The insertion tool1102 also includes a button 1144 that, when actuated operates a styletholding mechanism 1145. The stylet holding mechanism 1145 canincorporate a spring or other arrangement that holds the stylet inplace, but can be released to retract the stylet. For example, thestylet holding mechanism can incorporate a spring that is compressed andattached to the stylet, as illustrated in FIG. 11A. When the button 1144is actuated the compression on the spring is released and the springrelaxes to its uncompressed state and, as a result, retracts the stylet,as illustrated in FIG. 11B. It will be understood that a similarmechanism can be used to extend the stylet rather than retract thestylet. Moreover, it will be understood that the stylet holdingmechanism described herein can be used with any of the stylets describedherein to transition the stylet from a first position to a secondposition.

FIG. 12 is a schematic overview of one embodiment of components of anelectrical stimulation system 1200 including an electronic subassembly1210 disposed within a control module. It will be understood that theelectrical stimulation system can include more, fewer, or differentcomponents and can have a variety of different configurations includingthose configurations disclosed in the stimulator references citedherein.

Some of the components (for example, power source 1212, antenna 1218,receiver 1202, and processor 1204) of the electrical stimulation systemcan be positioned on one or more circuit boards or similar carrierswithin a sealed housing of an implantable pulse generator, if desired.Any power source 1212 can be used including, for example, a battery suchas a primary battery or a rechargeable battery. Examples of other powersources include super capacitors, nuclear or atomic batteries,mechanical resonators, infrared collectors, thermally-powered energysources, flexural powered energy sources, bioenergy power sources, fuelcells, bioelectric cells, osmotic pressure pumps, and the like includingthe power sources described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No.2004/0059392, incorporated herein by reference.

As another alternative, power can be supplied by an external powersource through inductive coupling via the optional antenna 1218 or asecondary antenna. The external power source can be in a device that ismounted on the skin of the user or in a unit that is provided near theuser on a permanent or periodic basis.

If the power source 1212 is a rechargeable battery, the battery may berecharged using the optional antenna 1218, if desired. Power can beprovided to the battery for recharging by inductively coupling thebattery through the antenna to a recharging unit 1216 external to theuser. Examples of such arrangements can be found in the referencesidentified above.

In one embodiment, electrical current is emitted by the electrodes 134on the paddle or lead body to stimulate nerve fibers, muscle fibers, orother body tissues near the electrical stimulation system. A processor1204 is generally included to control the timing and electricalcharacteristics of the electrical stimulation system. For example, theprocessor 1204 can, if desired, control one or more of the timing,frequency, strength, duration, and waveform of the pulses. In addition,the processor 1204 can select which electrodes can be used to providestimulation, if desired. In some embodiments, the processor 1204 mayselect which electrode(s) are cathodes and which electrode(s) areanodes. In some embodiments, the processor 1204 may be used to identifywhich electrodes provide the most useful stimulation of the desiredtissue.

Any processor can be used and can be as simple as an electronic devicethat, for example, produces pulses at a regular interval or theprocessor can be capable of receiving and interpreting instructions froman external programming unit 1208 that, for example, allows modificationof pulse characteristics. In the illustrated embodiment, the processor1204 is coupled to a receiver 1202 which, in turn, is coupled to theoptional antenna 1218. This allows the processor 1204 to receiveinstructions from an external source to, for example, direct the pulsecharacteristics and the selection of electrodes, if desired.

In one embodiment, the antenna 1218 is capable of receiving signals(e.g., RF signals) from an external telemetry unit 1206 which isprogrammed by a programming unit 1208. The programming unit 1208 can beexternal to, or part of, the telemetry unit 1206. The telemetry unit1206 can be a device that is worn on the skin of the user or can becarried by the user and can have a form similar to a pager, cellularphone, or remote control, if desired. As another alternative, thetelemetry unit 1206 may not be worn or carried by the user but may onlybe available at a home station or at a clinician's office. Theprogramming unit 1208 can be any unit that can provide information tothe telemetry unit 1206 for transmission to the electrical stimulationsystem 1200. The programming unit 1208 can be part of the telemetry unit1206 or can provide signals or information to the telemetry unit 1206via a wireless or wired connection. One example of a suitableprogramming unit is a computer operated by the user or clinician to sendsignals to the telemetry unit 1206.

The signals sent to the processor 1204 via the antenna 1218 and receiver1202 can be used to modify or otherwise direct the operation of theelectrical stimulation system. For example, the signals may be used tomodify the pulses of the electrical stimulation system such as modifyingone or more of pulse duration, pulse frequency, pulse waveform, andpulse strength. The signals may also direct the electrical stimulationsystem 1200 to cease operation, to start operation, to start chargingthe battery, or to stop charging the battery. In other embodiments, thestimulation system does not include an antenna 1218 or receiver 1202 andthe processor 1204 operates as programmed.

Optionally, the electrical stimulation system 1200 may include atransmitter (not shown) coupled to the processor 1204 and the antenna1218 for transmitting signals back to the telemetry unit 1206 or anotherunit capable of receiving the signals. For example, the electricalstimulation system 1200 may transmit signals indicating whether theelectrical stimulation system 1200 is operating properly or not orindicating when the battery needs to be charged or the level of chargeremaining in the battery. The processor 1204 may also be capable oftransmitting information about the pulse characteristics so that a useror clinician can determine or verify the characteristics.

The above specification, examples and data provide a description of themanufacture and use of the composition of the invention. Since manyembodiments of the invention can be made without departing from thespirit and scope of the invention, the invention also resides in theclaims hereinafter appended.

What is claimed as new and desired to be protected by Letters Patent ofthe United States is:
 1. A paddle lead insertion tool, comprising: aninsertion tool body comprising a receiving end portion, a handling endportion, an outer surface, and a longitudinal length; a stylet channelextending along the longitudinal length of the insertion tool body fromthe receiving end portion to the handling end portion; a stylet wire atleast partially disposed in the stylet channel, the stylet wire having afirst end, a second end, and a curved portion between the first andsecond ends, the stylet wire forming a partial loop; and an actuatorassembly disposed along the handling end portion of the insertion toolbody and coupled to the stylet wire, wherein the actuator assemblycomprises a first actuator handle attached to the first end of thestylet wire and a second actuator handle attached to the second end ofthe stylet wire, wherein the insertion tool is configured and arrangedto transition the stylet wire between a retracted position and anextended position using the actuator assembly, wherein, when the styletwire is in the retracted position, the curved portion of the stylet wireis disposed completely within the stylet channel and, when the styletwire is in the extended position, the curved portion of the stylet wireextends outwardly from the insertion tool body and is configured andarranged for insertion into a stylet lumen of a paddle lead, wherein thefirst and second actuator handles, in combination with the stylet wire,are configured and arranged to facilitate steering of a paddle lead toright or left relative to the receiving end portion of the insertiontool body.
 2. The paddle lead insertion tool of claim 1, furthercomprising a rotational wire attached to the stylet wire and a thirdactuator handle dispose along the handling end portion of the insertiontool body and coupled to the rotational wire, wherein the third actuatorhandle and the rotational wire are configured and arranged to rotate thepaddle lead clockwise or counterclockwise relative to the rotationalwire.
 3. The paddle lead insertion tool of claim 2, wherein the thirdactuator handle is configured and arranged to rotate around a portion ofa perimeter of the handling end portion of the insertion tool body. 4.The paddle lead insertion tool of claim 1, wherein the stylet wirecomprises a nitinol wire.
 5. The paddle lead insertion tool of claim 1,wherein the stylet wire forms a 180 degree loop.
 6. The paddle leadinsertion tool of claim 1, wherein the stylet wire is radiopaque.
 7. Asystem for implanting a paddle lead, the system comprising: the paddlelead insertion tool of claim 1; and a paddle lead comprising a paddlebody, at least one lead body extending from the paddle body, a pluralityof electrodes disposed on the paddle body, and a stylet lumen definedwithin the paddle body.
 8. A method of implanting a paddle lead, themethod comprising: inserting the curved portion of the stylet wire ofthe insertion tool of claim 1 into a paddle body of a paddle lead;inserting the paddle body of the paddle lead into patient tissue; andoperating the actuator assembly of the insertion tool to move the styletwire steer the paddle body to an implantation site.
 9. An insertion toolfor a paddle lead, the paddle lead comprising a paddle body, theinsertion tool comprising: an insertion tool body comprising a receivingend portion, a handling end portion, an outer surface, and alongitudinal length; a paddle envelope extending from the receiving endportion and configured and arranged to receive the paddle body of thepaddle lead, to hold the paddle body during implantation, and to releasethe paddle body when directed by a user; a stylet channel extendingalong the longitudinal length of the insertion tool body from thereceiving end portion to the handling end portion; a stylet disposed inthe stylet channel and configured and arranged to operate the paddleenvelope to hold or release the paddle body; and an actuator assemblydisposed along the handling end portion of the insertion tool body andcoupled to the stylet, the actuator assembly configured and arranged tocontrol transitioning of the stylet between a first position and asecond position.
 10. The insertion tool of claim 9, wherein the paddleenvelope comprises a first envelope element and a second envelopeelement opposite the first envelope element, wherein the first andsecond envelope elements are configured and arranged to receive thepaddle body of the paddle lead between the first and second envelopeelements.
 11. The insertion tool of claim 10, wherein the first andsecond envelope elements are both coupled to the stylet.
 12. Theinsertion tool of claim 11, wherein the stylet is configured andarranged to extend and retract the first and second envelope elements.13. The insertion tool of claim 10, wherein the first envelope elementis coupled to the stylet and the second envelope element is attached tothe receiving end portion and configured and arranged to remainstationary relative to the receiving end portion.
 14. The insertion toolof claim 10, wherein the stylet comprises a head and the first envelopeelement is configured and arranged to move in response to extension orretraction of the head of the stylet.
 15. The insertion tool of claim14, wherein the second envelope element is configured and arranged tomove in response to extension or retraction of the head of the stylet.16. The insertion tool of claim 15, wherein the first and secondenvelope elements each comprise a bent or curved region that, in a firstposition of the stylet, fit around the head of the stylet.
 17. Theinsertion tool of claim 9, wherein the actuator assembly comprises anactuator button and a stylet holding mechanism coupled to the actuatorbutton and the stylet.
 18. The insertion tool of claim 9, furthercomprising a stylet holding mechanism that holds the stylet in place andan actuator configured and arranged to release the stylet when actuatedand retract the stylet.
 19. A system for implanting a paddle lead, thesystem comprising: the insertion tool of claim 9; and a paddle leadcomprising a paddle body, at least one lead body extending from thepaddle body, and a plurality of electrodes disposed on the paddle body.20. A method of implanting a paddle lead, the method comprising:inserting a paddle body of a paddle lead into the paddle envelope of theinsertion tool of claim 9; inserting the paddle body of the paddle leadinto patient tissue; and operating the actuator assembly of theinsertion tool to release the paddle body of the paddle lead at animplantation site.